_:b1218703 "URL:http://medical.merriam-webster.com/medical/saliva"^^ . _:b1218703 "Saliva is a slightly alkaline secretion of water, mucin, protein, salts, and often a starch-splitting enzyme (as ptyalin) that is secreted into the mouth by salivary glands, lubricates ingested food, and often begins the breakdown of starches."^^ . _:b1218703 . _:b1218703 . _:b1218703 .